How much does a lymphatic drainage massage cost?
Ashburn, VA

How much does a lymphatic drainage massage cost?

Ashburn, VA

How much does a lymphatic drainage massage cost?

$100 – $150 average cost per session (60 minutes)
$150 – $200 average cost per session (90 minutes)

Get free estimates for your project or view our cost guide below:

$100 – $150 average cost per session (60 minutes)

$150 – $200 average cost per session (90 minutes)


Get free estimates for your project or view our cost guide below:
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Jennifer Carlson
Written by
Jennifer Carlson
Edited by
Tara Farmer
Fact-checked by
Kristen Cramer

Average lymphatic drainage massage cost

The average lymphatic drainage massage costs $100 to $150 for a 60-minute session or $150 to $200 for a longer 90-minute session. Lymphatic drainage massages help improve circulation, reduce swelling, and relieve pain and stress. You can also buy massage packages with multiple lymphatic drainage sessions at a reduced rate.

Average lymphatic drainage massage price - Chart
Average lymphatic drainage massage price - Chart
Average lymphatic drainage massage price
Session type Average price per session
30 minutes $50 – $100
60 minutes $100 – $150
90 minutes $150 – $200
Package of 3* $250 – $400
Package of 6* $500 – $650

*60-minute sessions

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What is lymphatic massage?

Lymphatic drainage massage, also called manual lymphatic drainage (MLD), involves stimulating the body in order to move lymph fluid. The lymphatic system circulates fluid through nodes and removes any waste. When you’re sick or not moving regularly, you may notice swollen lymph nodes in your neck, groin, or underarms.

Although lymphatic drainage is generally safe, you should avoid it if:

  • You’re pregnant.

  • You have an active infection.

  • You have a heart condition or blood clotting.

  • You have a kidney disorder.

  • You have chronic high blood pressure.

Lymphatic massage cost factors

Several factors affect the cost of a lymphatic drainage massage:

  • Experience: Massage therapists with more training and experience tend to charge more, especially those with training in techniques like the Vodder or Chickly methods.

  • Location: Massage therapists in larger cities usually charge more due to the higher cost of living.

  • Session length: A lymphatic drainage massage usually lasts about an hour. Longer treatments will cost more than average, and shorter sessions cost less.

  • Add-ons: Adding extra services like lymph taping or foam pads costs $5 to $50 per session.

  • Packages: Many massage therapists offer discounts if you purchase a package with multiple sessions.

Benefits of a lymphatic drainage massage

Lymphatic drainage can help support your body’s natural detoxification processes. It can also help with the following:

  • Reduce swelling or lymphedema

  • Support the immune system

  • Boosts healing by increasing blood flow

  • Enhance skin health

  • Maintain a youthful appearance

  • Relieve stress

  • Reduce pain

Techniques

Lymphatic drainage massages use gentle pressure and specific movements to stimulate the movement of lymph fluids. These include:

  • Soft gliding movements

  • Gently stretching the skin

  • Cupping and compressing using the hands

  • Massaging in a specific sequence

What to expect

Before your massage appointment, be sure to drink plenty of water to encourage lymph flow and avoid ibuprofen or other blood thinners if possible. During your appointment, you’ll lie on your back or sit up if you have lymphedema in your head or neck.

The massage therapist will start with breathing exercises and then use light movements to massage any non-swollen lymph nodes. Then, they move on to swollen or blocked nodes, moving the fluid toward larger nodes and then toward the heart.

A massage therapist giving a client a lymphatic drainage massage
A massage therapist giving a client a lymphatic drainage massage

Other massage types & costs

If you’re not concerned specifically with lymphatic drainage or want to explore other options, the table below details the average price ranges for some of the most common types of massage therapy:

Get free estimates from massage therapists near you.
Massage cost by type
Massage type Average cost per 60-minute session
Standard massage cost $50 – $130
Swedish massage cost $50 – $75
Prenatal massage cost $75 – $100
Medical massage cost $70 – $125
Sports massage cost $75 – $125

Lymphatic drainage massage FAQs

Does lymphatic drainage massage work?

Lymphatic drainage massage works by reducing swelling and supporting your body’s natural detox processes. Many people feel energized and experience less bloating after a session. If you have a condition like lymphedema or are going through post-surgery recovery, this massage type can be particularly beneficial.

Where do I get a lymphatic drainage massage?

You can get a lymphatic drainage massage at massage studios, spas, med spas, or from independent massage therapists. Just make sure the studio or spa is licensed and the therapist is trained specifically in lymphatic drainage massage before making an appointment.

What can I do after a lymphatic drainage massage?

Your massage therapist may give you specific instructions after the massage, but usually, they recommend:

  • Taking a warm shower or bath

  • Wearing loose, comfortable clothing

  • Applying a light moisturizer to the skin

  • Resting and avoiding strenuous activity

How often should you get a lymphatic drainage massage?

How often you get a lymphatic drainage massage depends on your health goals:

  • After surgery or an injury, many doctors recommend 2 to 3 sessions per week until the swelling is reduced.

  • For health conditions that cause lymphedema, a massage therapist may recommend sessions every 1 to 3 weeks to manage chronic swelling.

  • For overall wellness, you may only need one session every 3 to 6 months.

You can always adjust the frequency according to your symptoms.

What is Brazilian lymphatic drainage massage?

Brazilian lymphatic drainage massage (BLDM) is a unique approach that combines manual lymphatic drainage massage (MLD), long, sweeping strokes alternating between firm and light pressure, and myofascial release. The Brazilian method uses deeper pressure than MLD, but it's not considered a deep tissue massage.

While MLD is a medically recognized treatment for lymphedema, BLDM targets bloating, puffiness, water retention, and cellulite for enhanced overall wellness. Many people say it also provides a mental and physical energy boost.

What to look for in a lymphatic drainage massage therapist

Follow these guidelines to help you choose a qualified massage therapist near you:

  • Look at their prices as well as their experience and training.

  • Confirm that they’re licensed. If you're in a state that doesn't license massage therapists, verify that they have relevant training and experience in MLD.

  • Read their customer’s reviews on Thervo and Google.

  • Ask questions about the massage process.

  • Make sure they have openings that fit your schedule.

Questions to ask a massage therapist

Asking these questions can help you pick the best massage therapist for you:

  • What type of lymphatic drainage methods or techniques do you use?

  • How much experience do you have with lymphatic drainage?

  • What certifications do you have?

  • Are there any potential side effects?

  • How often would I need this massage to reduce symptoms?

  • Do you have experience working with insurance claims?

  • Do you offer package discounts for multiple sessions?